French harpsichordist Frédérick Haas has made a name for himself with an aristocratic, pensive style more attuned to introspection than pyrotechnics. He has a profound knowledge of the inner workings of harpsichords and the secrets of their fine-tuning. Haas owns the spellbindingly beautiful 1751 Henri Hemsch Harpsichord used on this recording of Bach's immortal Goldberg Variations. Explaining why he chose a French harpsichord for a decidedly German work, Hass explains, "Since the 1751 Hemsch is one of the most beautiful harpsichords in existence and its tone and mechanics are perfect, why not use it here? The interpreter's role is to make sure his French harpsichord speaks decent German.

American Record Guide, September / October 2012The label, La Dolce Volta, states that it "wants to change people's perception of CDs so that they see them as luxury items". A great deal of care was put into the packaging of this recording. The cover and illustrations were designed by Jerome Reese, an artist and producer. Haas's playing style is thoughtful and reflective.